Child Life Program

The Child Life Program is play-based and helps children, teens and family members cope with illness, treatment and the overall healthcare experience. A trained Child Life Specialist can provide health education regarding illness, preparation for medical procedures, distraction during painful procedures, developmentally appropriate play and recreation, creative arts and emotional support for patients and families.

The program promotes the development of supportive relationships between patients, their family members and the medical staff.

At National Jewish Health, a Child Life Specialist is involved with helping children understand different procedures performed at National Jewish Health with an emphasis on why they are important and coping strategies during the procedures. You may ask to see a Child Life at any time during your visit to National Jewish Health including clinic visits, triage visits, and Day Program admissions. Child life services are available at no cost to the patient.

Testing and Procedures

The Child Life Program also runs the therapeutic playroom. It is located between the pediatric care unit and the pediatric clinic. This playroom is staffed by trained volunteers and is open each morning and afternoon. We hope by providing this playroom we are helping children view visits to the doctor or hospital in a more positive light. Many children look forward to coming to the playroom and playing before/after their appointment or during their hospitalization. Within the playroom are games, art activities, a pretend medical play area and an outdoor playground.

If you are interested in becoming a Pediatric Activity Volunteer, please call 303.398.1126.

Donations

If you are interested in donating toys, supplies or other items, please view our Wish List for the program.

Davis Silcox hated how eczema and food allergies made him feel. For four and a half years, he and his family struggled with sleepless nights and a severely restricted diet. After a 10-day appointment at National Jewish Health, he and his family have a “new life.”